I love farmhouse style furniture, and one of my favorite pieces to work on is a coffee table. Refinishing a coffee table in a farmhouse style can completely transform its look and add a touch of rustic charm to any living room. If you’re interested in bringing new life to your old coffee table, follow this step-by-step guide on how to refinish a coffee table in farmhouse style.
Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin the refinishing process, you’ll need to gather all the necessary supplies. Here’s a list of items you’ll need:
1. Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
2. Paint or stain (in a farmhouse color of your choice)
3. Paintbrush or foam roller
4. Painter’s tape
5. Drop cloth or old sheets to protect your work area
6. Screwdriver or drill (if your table has any hardware)
7. Tack cloth or lint-free cloth
8. Polyurethane (optional, for added protection)
9. Paint stirrer and mixing container (if using paint or stain requiring mixing)
Prepare Your Work Area
Now that you have all your supplies ready, it’s time to prepare your work area. Find a well-ventilated space, preferably outdoors or in a garage. Lay down a drop cloth or old sheets to protect the surrounding area from any drips or spills. Make sure you have enough room to comfortably work on your coffee table.
Remove the Hardware
If your coffee table has any hardware such as handles or knobs, now is the time to remove them. Use a screwdriver or drill to carefully unscrew and detach any hardware from the table. Set them aside in a safe place, ensuring you don’t lose any small screws or pieces.
Sanding
The next step is sanding, which is crucial for creating a smooth and even surface for your paint or stain. Start by using medium-grit sandpaper to sand the entire coffee table. Focus on removing any existing finish or paint, making sure to sand evenly across the surface. Once you’ve removed the old finish, switch to fine-grit sandpaper for a final smooth finish.
Fill in any Imperfections
If you notice any dents, scratches, or holes on your coffee table, now is the time to fill them in. Use a wood filler or putty that matches the color of your table. Apply the filler to the affected areas, smoothing it out with a putty knife. Allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Wipe Down the Table
Once you have finished sanding and filling in any imperfections, it’s essential to wipe down the coffee table. Use a tack cloth or a lint-free cloth to remove any dust or debris from the surface. The cleaner the surface, the better the paint or stain will adhere to it.
Apply the Paint or Stain
Now it’s time to apply the paint or stain to achieve that farmhouse look. If you choose to use paint, select a color that complements your desired farmhouse style. Apply a thin, even coat of paint using a paintbrush or foam roller, working in the direction of the wood grain. Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying subsequent coats, if necessary.
Create a Distressed Look (Optional)
If you prefer a distressed farmhouse look, you can distress your coffee table after the paint has dried. Use sandpaper to gently rub the edges, corners, and areas where natural wear would occur over time. This will give your coffee table a charming, lived-in appearance.
Applying Stain (Optional)
If you’d rather have a stained coffee table, choose a stain that matches your desired farmhouse aesthetic. Apply the stain using a paintbrush or cloth, following the grain of the wood. Allow the stain to penetrate the wood for a few minutes, then wipe off any excess with a clean cloth. Repeat this process for additional coats, depending on the depth of color you desire.
Protect with Polyurethane (Optional)
To protect your newly refinished coffee table from everyday wear and tear, consider applying a coat of polyurethane. Polyurethane provides an extra layer of protection and durability to your tabletop. Apply it using a clean brush or roller, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying additional coats if needed.
Reattach the Hardware
Once your coffee table has dried, it’s time to reattach any hardware you removed earlier. Use a screwdriver or drill to secure them back in place, ensuring they are tight and secure.
Enjoy Your Farmhouse Coffee Table
Congratulations! You’ve successfully refinished your coffee table in a farmhouse style. Allow it to cure for at least 24 hours before placing any objects on it to ensure the finish has fully hardened. Once it’s ready, proudly display your beautiful farmhouse coffee table in your living room and enjoy your newly transformed piece of furniture.
So, whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or just want to update your coffee table, following this step-by-step guide will help you achieve a stunning farmhouse-style coffee table that adds character and warmth to your home. Happy refinishing!